Key Decisions for Steve Clarke Ahead of Scotland's Crucial Nations League Play-offs

Steve Clarke faces critical decisions as Scotland prepares for the Nations League play-offs against Greece, with key players and strategies in focus.

As Scotland gears up for the Nations League play-offs against Greece, head coach Steve Clarke has several critical decisions to make. The upcoming matches, set to be broadcast live on the BBC, will determine whether Scotland remains in League A or drops down a division. Here are the key questions Clarke must address:

Goalkeeper Dilemma

Craig Gordon, despite being 42, continues to perform at a high level for Hearts. He reclaimed the starting position after Angus Gunn's injury but faces competition from Zander Clark and Liam Kelly, who are not currently playing for their clubs.

Right-Back Options

Anthony Ralston has been reliable, but Clarke is eager to have Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson back. Hickey is recovering from a long-term injury, while Patterson needs to regain form and fitness for Everton.

Midfield Reinforcement

Lewis Ferguson, now back in action with Bologna after a knee injury, is expected to feature in the Greece double-header. His presence could be crucial in the midfield.

Striker Conundrum

Scotland's recent goals have come from midfield and defense. Kevin Nisbet's form at Aberdeen and George Hirst's potential call-up are options Clarke might consider to strengthen the attack.

Replacing Ben Doak

Ben Doak's injury leaves a gap in Scotland's attack. Clarke will need to find a speedy winger to fill the void, especially with uncertainties over Lewis Morgan and James Forrest.

These decisions will shape Scotland's strategy and performance in the crucial upcoming matches.

What to Read Next

Fantasy Premier League 2025-26: Expert Picks, Avoids, and Key Insights
Football

Fantasy Premier League 2025-26: Expert Picks, Avoids, and Key Insights

Get the latest FPL 2025-26 insights from experts, including top picks, players to avoid, and key strategies for your Fantasy Premier League team.

Tottenham Nears Loan Deal for Bayern's Midfielder Joao Palhinha
Football

Tottenham Nears Loan Deal for Bayern's Midfielder Joao Palhinha

Tottenham is close to securing a loan deal for Bayern Munich's midfielder Joao Palhinha, aiming to strengthen their squad with his Premier League experience.

Manchester United's Transfer Dilemma: Sancho's Future and Premier League Moves
Football

Manchester United's Transfer Dilemma: Sancho's Future and Premier League Moves

Manchester United awaits Jadon Sancho's decision on his future, while Everton and Galatasaray make significant moves in the transfer market.

Brentford Breaks Transfer Record with £42.5m Signing of Dango Ouattara
Football

Brentford Breaks Transfer Record with £42.5m Signing of Dango Ouattara

Brentford makes history with a record £42.5m deal for Bournemouth's Dango Ouattara, strengthening their squad for the upcoming Premier League season.

Manchester City Secures Laura Wienroither in a Strategic Move Until 2027
Football

Manchester City Secures Laura Wienroither in a Strategic Move Until 2027

Manchester City strengthens their defense by signing Laura Wienroither from Arsenal until 2027, aiming for future titles in the Women's Super League.

Jamie Cureton: The Ageless Football Legend Still Dominating the Pitch at 49
Football

Jamie Cureton: The Ageless Football Legend Still Dominating the Pitch at 49

Jamie Cureton, nearing 50, continues his remarkable football journey with Cambridge City, aiming for a historic 32nd season in English football.

Man Utd's Pursuit of Baleba and Latest Football Transfer Gossip
Football

Man Utd's Pursuit of Baleba and Latest Football Transfer Gossip

Explore the latest football transfer gossip including Man Utd's interest in Carlos Baleba, Everton's talks for Jack Grealish, and more.

England's Historic Euro 2025 Victory: The Most-Watched TV Moment of the Year
Football

England's Historic Euro 2025 Victory: The Most-Watched TV Moment of the Year

England's dramatic Euro 2025 final victory against Spain became the most-watched TV moment of the year, captivating millions across BBC and ITV platforms.

The Cutthroat World of Championship Football: Managerial Turmoil and New Beginnings
Football

The Cutthroat World of Championship Football: Managerial Turmoil and New Beginnings

Explore the intense world of Championship football, where managerial changes are frequent and the pressure to perform is relentless. Discover the new faces and their challenges in the upcoming season.

Community Shield Victory: A Predictor of Premier League Success?
Football

Community Shield Victory: A Predictor of Premier League Success?

Explore whether winning the Community Shield leads to a successful Premier League season, with insights from recent statistics and notable player performances.

Morgan Gibbs-White Secures Future with Nottingham Forest: New Three-Year Deal
Football

Morgan Gibbs-White Secures Future with Nottingham Forest: New Three-Year Deal

Nottingham Forest's midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White has signed a new three-year contract, securing his future with the Premier League club until 2028.

Pape Gueye's High-Profile Transfer from Aberdeen to Kasimpasa: A New Chapter in Turkish Football
Football

Pape Gueye's High-Profile Transfer from Aberdeen to Kasimpasa: A New Chapter in Turkish Football

Explore the details of Pape Gueye's significant transfer from Aberdeen to Kasimpasa, marking a pivotal moment in his football career.

Graham Alexander Secures New Three-Year Deal with Bradford City: A New Era Begins
Football

Graham Alexander Secures New Three-Year Deal with Bradford City: A New Era Begins

Bradford City manager Graham Alexander signs a new three-year contract, aiming to solidify the club's position in League One after a successful promotion campaign.

Pierre Landry Kabore Joins Hearts: A Versatile Striker's Journey to Scottish Premiership
Football

Pierre Landry Kabore Joins Hearts: A Versatile Striker's Journey to Scottish Premiership

Hearts FC secures the signing of versatile striker Pierre Landry Kabore, enhancing their forward line with his impressive goal-scoring record.

Arsenal's Striker Solution: Creating Chances Remains the Key Challenge
Football

Arsenal's Striker Solution: Creating Chances Remains the Key Challenge

Explore how Arsenal's new striker Viktor Gyokeres could address their chance creation issues in the Premier League.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.